Wetlands are damp, marshy areas alongside riverbeds and lakes that make the perfect home for many species of birds, fish, insects, amphibians, and mammals.
The Columbia Wetlands run alongside the Columbia River and acts as habitat for many species of mammals, birds, insects, rodents, and fish!
Here are a few fun facts about this beautiful natural feature!
The Columbia Wetlands are a 15,070 hectare wetland running throughout the Columbia Valley.
It was designated as a protected space in 1996 by the Canadian Wildlife Service. To protect the many species of wildlife that call the wetlands home, the Columbia Wetlands have 20-horsepower limit to boats travelling through the river.
More than 260 species of birds call the Columbia Wetlands home.
Birdwatchers rejoice! Stay on the lookout for birds such as Bald Eagles and Great Blue Herons. The Columbia Wetlands are also used as a flyway for migratory birds including the famous Canada Goose!
Canada is home to nearly 1/4 of all the Wetlands in the whole world!
The Columbia Wetlands are some of the largest in the country, spanning 180 kilometers through the Columbia Valley and beyond.
Wetlands offer what is known as “ecosystem services” which aids in the purification of water and storing carbon from the atmosphere.
The wetlands act as a sponge to ensure that ecosystems remain a viable place for animals to call home.
The Columbia Wetlands are known as a wildlife corridor for many species!
Large mammals such as grizzly bear, elk, and moose use the Columbia Wetlands to find food sources and water. Smaller animals like rodents, insects, and amphibians find habitat throughout the Wetlands as well, in small hollows or trees.
Want to get exploring the Columbia Wetlands? Check out our guide to getting out on the river or trails!